Bartolomeo Giovenardi, a 17th-century Italian harpist, was also a political and economic advisor at the Spanish court of Philip IV, having studied music, mathematics, and law.
Compositional Technique
A ricercare, a type of instrumental piece, could either follow strict contrapuntal rules or be developed freely in the style of a toccata, sometimes using 'false notes' for beauty.
Composer Biography
Gian Leonardo Mollica, also known as Giallonardo dell'Arpa, was a famous Neapolitan harpist in the mid-16th century whose fame extended to Spain.
Cultural Impact
In 17th-century Italy, the harp and the five-course Spanish guitar were the most popular instruments, vying for the top position.
Historical Context
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Naples was a major European cultural center, on par with London and Paris, due to its lively musical and cultural ties with Spain.
Performer Biography
Margret Köll, the harpist on this album, has performed with notable artists like Meredith Monk and the Kronos Quartet, and has taught Baroque harp in Berlin since 2012.
Instruments
The album features Margret Köll playing an arpa doppia (double harp) made in 2007 by Eric Kleinmann, modeled after the historic Barberini Harp housed in Rome.
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